Congratulations to Hayley Lucas, who graduated yesterday with a Foundation degree in Children’s and Young People’s Services. She told us more about her time at college and how it has helped her to move on to further studies and one step closer to the career she wants.
Why did you choose to study the course you did?
“I left school with a really good number of GCSEs and came straight to Chesterfield college in 1998 to study Fashion and Textiles. Unfortunately, I did not pursue my education any further than that. I was in an unhealthy relationship and I was persuaded not to continue my studies past A levels.
I spent many years at home raising my son and eventually took a 6 hour a week role in a secondary school. The school environment was really positive for me. I saw students come in Y7 and flourish and grow and then move on to really exciting university life and successful careers.
I saw teachers that were passionate about helping children be the best that they could be. It quickly rubbed off and I wanted to be a part of that too. I worked hard and became a full-time cover supervisor and really enjoyed it. But I did not have a degree so I could not progress into teaching. The course was available at night time and fitted around my job and home life. The school supported my development and I was able to use it as my placement. The course provided me with a deep insight into the world of education and the development of children into young people.”
Have you enjoyed studying at chesterfield college?
“Chesterfield College is an amazing place to learn, you are made to feel welcome from the start and have continual support. I really enjoyed my time at Chesterfield College.”
Have your tutors supported you?
“Candy is an amazing tutor, very approachable. We always had one to one tutorial sessions and she encouraged me to push myself. She made lectures fun and provided us with a range of activities to ensure that we fully understood the content.
Aside from the help and support with my academic studies, Chesterfield College looked after my wellbeing. I received support from Anna (the support coordinator for adult learners) and a professional counsellor. They made sure I was safe and my basic needs were met. Candy and the University of Derby (who the course was provided by) worked together and ensured that I received extensions where appropriate so I could stay on track with my studies.
What are you doing now?
“I am still in my role as a cover supervisor, I finished my top-up degree in November 2021. I am now exploring career options in teaching and researching postgraduate schemes in social work and civil service.”
Would you recommend HE at chesterfield college?
“I definitely would. It was easier to attend than a university location. Being able to attend evening lectures was perfect to fit around work and family commitments. I received incredible support from my tutor and the Wellbeing Hub when I was experiencing an incredibly difficult situation at home.”
Are you excited to be graduating?
“I am very excited to be graduating. After the Covid restrictions have put a halt to social gatherings, I was always nervous that we would never get to have our ceremony. It will be so nice to see everyone and celebrate properly.”
What opportunities are you looking forward to now that you have completed your course?
“The course has opened up so many opportunities. The course content was broad and interesting and unlocked areas of interest that I had not previously considered. I was able to gain my full degree after completing the course which in turn has given me many pathways to explore. I will continue looking at routes into teaching, which was my original goal before I started at Chesterfield College, but my studies have sparked an interest in other fields of work, such as social work, behaviour management and youth offending.”